Interpreting an orthopantomogram

An orthopantomogram (OPG) is a common radiograph used to identify the hard tissues of the oral cavity and surrounding skeletal structures. It is an extra-oral radiograph that approximates the focal trough of the mandible. Although resolution is not as detailed as intra-oral radiographs for examination of the teeth, gross changes in calcification of the dental structures, and changes in ossification of the underlying mandible and maxilla can aid in identification of dental disease such as caries (decay), periodontal bone loss, and abscess and cyst formation.